GMOs in Kenya

GMOs in Kenya describes market for Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in Kenya, including policies that allow or ban them.

Importation of GMOs for Consumption
In 2010, the Kenyan government approved a law allowing the importation of genetically modified products for consumption, pending the approval of the state-run National Biosafety Authority. The NBA gave the green light in 2011.

First Importation of GE Corn
In 2011, Kenya (along with other nearby African nations) experienced a major drought, resulting in a shortage of corn (maize). At that time, the government dropped tariffs on imported corn to prevent an increase in prices and arranged for a shipment of GE corn from South Africa. GE corn was 30% cheaper than non-GE corn, and Kenya's Cereal Millers Association lobbied hard for the importation of GE corn. The shipment was met with protests organized by the African Biodiversity Network and the Unga Revolution.

Related SourceWatch articles

 * Biotechnology
 * Genetic Engineering
 * GMO Policies by Country
 * GE Corn
 * Using Hunger to Promote Genetic Engineering

External articles

 * Dennis Odunga, "Hunger crisis rekindles debate over GM maize," Daily Nation, July 2, 2011.
 * "Mutant Maize Sparks Kenyan Mutiny," International Business Times, July 1, 2011.
 * "Kenyans protest over GM maize imports," BBC News, July 1, 2011.
 * Beatrice Gachenge, "Kenya to allow GM maize to alleviate shortage," Reuters, June 29, 2011.
 * George Omondi, "Maize shortage plays into hands of genetically modified food advocates," Business Daily, June 27, 2011.
 * Allan Odhiambo, "Kenya in spotlight as more nations turn to GM foods," Business Daily, March 7, 2011.